The Green Post
Montly Magazine
AN Insight with Shahid Hussain
Interview
Junaid Toru
Shahid Hussain, twice serving as the Senior Vice President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry and currently overseeing a standing committee for the promotion of trade between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia as Chairman, shares his insights on the current state of regional trade and the way forward.
Hussain believes that regional trade with Central Asian states and Afghanistan presents numerous opportunities and challenges. The geographical positioning, infrastructural rights, energy resources, and economic corridor projects offer immense potential. However, political instability, security issues, and slow border processing remain significant hurdles. Overcoming these challenges requires stable policies, trust, transparency, and robust government relations. There is a need to improve infrastructure, simplify customs processes, and initiate joint economic projects.
Reflecting on his 18 years of experience, Hussain underscores the importance of trust, transparency, stable policies, and strong government relations. Over the past four years, he has organized trade delegations, joint trade exhibitions, and signed trade agreements. Significant progress includes partnerships with PDF and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, which have helped advance trade relations and simplify customs processes.
The current border situation primarily impacts traders from both Pakistan and Central Asia. Frequent closures, often due to minor issues, cause delays ranging from two to ten days, preventing goods from reaching the market on time. This is a major setback for traders on both sides. The Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry continuously offers its services and provides a forum to the government. They inform relevant authorities of the challenges faced by traders and address issues promptly. While many problems have been resolved, some persist due to security conditions or traders' lack of policy understanding. The chamber strives to keep traders informed about policies and updates the government on their legal issues.
Globally, Chambers of Commerce and Industry act as bridges between the government and traders, resolving issues and fostering cooperation. Regarding the current budget, Hussain notes that the imposition of a one percent duty on exports, rising electricity costs, and increased taxes make competing in the Afghan and Central Asian markets challenging.
The Sarhad Chamber of Commerce provides recommendations and awareness to the government. Small traders, heavily reliant on trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, struggle due to security issues and competition from small industries in Afghanistan. The chamber has organized seminars with banks and SMEDA to provide awareness about easy loans and funding for small traders. Any registered trader with an NTN and proper tax filings can join the chamber. Currently, around four thousand traders are registered, including both small and large traders, with over 500 industries registered at the corporate level. Initially, the chambers served the entire province. However, district-level chambers were introduced during Musharraf's era. The members still come from the entire province.
Hussain's message for those entering the business world is that success in trade requires national trust, consistency, and modern adaptability. He advises new entrepreneurs to be well-informed about their chosen field. The chamber provides guidance, explaining challenges and business feasibility. With consistency, self-confidence, and a win-win mindset, success is achievable.
Although the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce does not have a separate women's chamber, there are two seats for women in the executive body. Registered women entrepreneurs actively participate in various industries, creating awareness and sharing knowledge. Hussain's vision and efforts in enhancing regional trade are commendable. His focus on trust, transparency, and stable policies is essential for overcoming current challenges and fostering a prosperous future for trade in the region.
Shahid Hussain's vision and efforts in enhancing regional trade are commendable. His focus on trust, transparency, and stable policies is essential for overcoming current challenges and fostering a prosperous future for trade in the region.
Water, Water, Everywhere, Nor AnyDrop to Drink
Since 2009, Pakistan has its National Drinking Water Policy but hardly people at home, businesses, hotels, educational and other institutions get potable tap water. Millions of Pakistanis today do not have access to potable tap water, though million others have access to filtered tap water at public, private or individual finance. Those who are less privilege of being simple tap water users risk their health and life as they consume reportedly contaminated tap waters.
Pakistan is among the top 7 countries that host 90% of sick population; 40% children under 5 are stunted in Pakistan as compared to South Asian average of 31%. As per the National Nutrition Survey & Multi Cluster Indicator Survey (MICS) reports, the poor’s access to safe drinking water is a major contributor behind these alarming health statistics.”
The National Drinking Water Policy 2009 and the National Water Policy 2018 call for ensuring access to safe drinking water for its citizens. Consequently, the provinces developed their own policies such as the Sindh Water Policy – 2023, Sindh Drinking Water Policy – 2017, Punjab Drinking Water Policy – 2011, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Drinking Water Policy 2015 and Balochistan Drinking Water Policy 2015. Despite having water policies in place, our provinces are far behind reaching the targets of making potable water available for their population. We cannot simply forget the tragic April incident in Sanghar wherein five children lost their lives after drinking contaminated water. Million others across the country put their lives at stake as they are bound to use unclean water.
Meanwhile, Karachi faced yet another Cholera outbreak—a stark reminder that over 80% of our population drinks water tainted with E. coli.er. This is not because of scarcity of fresh water or lack of financial resources rather it is because of the deep-rooted structural issue in the legislation and policies related to drinking water. Despite numerous national and provincial policies, the lack of integrated and effective implementation continues to impact our water supply thus endangering the citizens.
The fundamental flaw, which mirrors through the narrative documents of the state such as the Constitution with its key amendments, budget documents, and planning and development discourse documents, is that somehow water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) got no guarantee or priority and hence is neglected. The article 38 though not explicitly however implicitly calls for providing all necessities of life including water as part of food. Access to safe drinking water needs to be acknowledged as a fundamental human right in the Constitution, in line with the UN General Assembly declaration in 2010. Pakistan’s parliamentarians have to take a collective action to address this pervasive issue. Nevertheless, the 18th amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan and the National Drinking Water Policy have compensated to a larger extent on the potable water issue by empowering provinces to formulate contextualized policies and strategies for social development subjects including water. The National Water Policy clearly talks about safe drinking water as a right.
What is needed now is a clear national policy framework for safe drinking water as strategic guideline for the provinces so that they can align their policies and practices accordingly and cater to the whole population (rural & urban) in the respective provinces. The water policy should not be left with the mandate of the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), which primarily serves rural areas. Water is an integrated subject which is linked to other relevant departments, such as health, local government, and the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), missing opportunities. Most of these policies don’t consider climate change which is a threatening phenomenon for natural resources, largely water, and human lives in Pakistan with a vast Indus basin. Pakistan’s 9 out of 10 big cities are situated within 50 kilometres of the river Indus and are impacted with depletion or restoration of Indus Ecosystem.
Narrowing down from water to fresh drinking water issue, one would see that the problem lies not in water scarcity but in the protection of freshwater sources. Since safe drinking water is not recognized as a fundamental human right in the Constitution of Pakistan – 1973 so there is a lack of adequate legal and regulatory frameworks for ensuring protection and conservation of surface and ground water sources. The disposal of solid and liquid waste in surface and ground water sources is alarming as both the rivers and freshwater streams are not just a dumping ground for solid and liquid waste. These are our strategic assets which need to be cleaned and recharged with natural eco-solutions.
Budget 2024-25: Promises of Growth Amidst Economic Challenges
EconoVision
The federal government has implemented their budget 2024-25 on 1st July 2024 with a hope to steer the country’s economic crisis into stability and progress.
Although 17 days of discussions in parliament were just a ritual process making parliament just a rubber stamp whereas, in our neighborhood the Indian parliament is mandatory to discuss budget for 75 days and in England it is 90 days.
The claim of the government is that through this budget, our GDP will grow by 3.6% and will bring prosperity across the country. This claim has irk many Pakistani citizens as they are facing the brunt of inflation and unemployment in the economy. The ongoing polarization and uncertainty in the political arena and further aggravated law and order situations have further added miseries in public life.
Although the Pakistan stock exchange is on unprecedented surge but when analysed, the fact revealed that a few sectors like banking, energy, and fertiliser, etc, excelled due to windfall profits earnings this year. These huge profits are mostly attributed to government high borrowing from the commercial banks due to unprecedented fiscal deficit.
Similarly, due to huge capacity charges paid in the energy sector, around two trillion rupees were transferred from public pockets to a few IPPs. Besides huge investment made by government owned enterprise “state life insurance” amounting over Rs 50 billion coupled with US dollars 110 million in foreign portfolio investment have created a surplus cash liquidity in PXS which led to huge corporate buyback share activity kept the index upward trend. Due to positive signals coming from the IMF staff meeting, the government took a few prior steps in the federal budget and also added investors’ confidence in the stock exchange.
The government also claimed 2 to 3 billion dollars increased in exports this fiscal year but didn’t reveal that due to heavy rains and Indian government policy not to export rice in regular quantity created a readymade market space for our extra rice export worth over two billion dollar.
The tight measures taken by the army chief to curtail dollar smuggling also reflected in 8 percent cent increase of remittances through legal channels.
All these achievements are based on circumstantial evidences but not on solid economic indicators.
The reality is that in fiscal year 2023-24, the FBR failed to meet their revenue target in the sales tax head, and FBR was in shortfall of over Rs.550 billion. Similarly, they have seen shortfall in their collections in the custom duties and FED. FBR achieved an additional Rs 654 billion in income tax collection over the targeted revenue . The total collection in income tax revenue was Rs 3053 billion around Rs.1850 billion came through withholding income tax and over Rs 950 billion through advance income tax, so the rest difference of Rs 250 billion is through FBR efficiency. This shortfall of collection in sales tax also clearly depicts a reduction in business activities across the country. That’s why this year, our investment in GDP ratio was recorded 13% the lowest in the last 50 years of Pakistan history. The increased income tax revenue came through further borrowing due to an unforeseen increase in the fiscal deficit, which in return increased the commercial banks’ interest payments, resulting in an increase in their income tax payments.
These are the few harsh realities on the ground. The performance of FBR can be replicated with any other government department or even institution. This scenario is increasing distrust of people in the state organs but also have increased their concern on the expenditure side. We have seen last year an increase in government employees (staff and officers) salaries by 35 and 30 percent and this year by 25 and 20 percent respectively. Besides many exemptions in taxes and unprecedented increase in their perks. This trend is creating visible division between placing at one side the protected government employees including politicians, elite capture like big landlords and few business tycoons who are less than 2% of total population and the other side consist of general people, SME and individual businesses, individual taxpayers, few large scale manufacturers and salaried class in private sector. In fact, out of over five million businesses, 4.7 million businesses consist of small and medium enterprises. Today, more than 87% of the workforce is employed in the SME sector, excluding the agriculture sector in Pakistan.
Instead of creating some “ease of doing business” for them through federal budget, their upper slab of income tax has been increased from 35 percent to 49.5 percent making it the highest in the region and also among the developing countries across the world. Similarly, for the salaried class, the upper limit of 35 percent is kept intact, but the surcharge of 10 percent has been imposed. Besides radical changes in the tax percentages in the existing slabs in order to extract the maximum income tax from them.
In this scenario, the protected segment of government and state are totally reluctant to adopt any meaningful austerity in their spending and expect the other side to keep on raising revenue for their ongoing extravagance of current expenditure.
In spite of the fact that in Pakistan it is known practice that almost 1/3 project cost is usually siphoned off in corruption even than the total amount announced in the federal and provinces budgets are around Rs 3500 billion the highest in the history of Pakistan.
The amount of around Rupees thirty trillion is announced in federal and four provincial budgets that is almost 1/3 of our total GDP value on top of it our federal budget has a 2% primary surplus that mean that excluding public debt interest servicing rest all current expenditures including defence and exorbitant increases in salaries and perks etc all will be paid through further borrowed money.
The revenue targets are not only difficult but rather impractical in the doldrum economic scenario. Therefore, unless the government cuts their expenditures, otherwise the projected fiscal deficit will go up exponentially.
and will add
Page 7 TGP July-24
Slow Art: The Master Illuminator of Tehran
Iranian artist Mohammad Hossein Aghamiri sometimes labours for six months on a single design, very carefully -- he knows a single crooked line could ruin his entire artwork.
In the age of AI-assisted graphic design on computer screens, the centuries-old tradition of Persian illumination offers an antidote to rushing the creative process.
Aghamiri's fine brush moves natural pigments onto the paper with deliberate precision as he creates intricate floral patterns, religious motifs and elegantly flowing calligraphy.
The exquisite artwork has for centuries embellished literary manuscripts, religious texts and royal edicts as well as many business contracts and marriage certificates.
Aghamiri, 51, is one of Iran's dozen or so remaining masters of the ancient illumination art of Tazhib, which was inscribed last year on UNESCO's list of intangible heritage.
"It is a very unique job that requires a lot of patience and precision," Aghamiri, a veteran of the craft with over 30 years' experience, told AFP in his downtown Tehran studio.
"It's not accessible to everyone."
Tazhib's non-figurative and geometric flourishes have traditionally adorned the margins of holy books and epic poems.
The artform dates back to the Sassanid era in pre-Islamic Iran but flourished after the seventh century advent of Islam, which banned human depictions.
Aghamiri says it often takes him months to finish one design and that a single misplaced stroke that disrupts its symmetrical harmony can force him to start over.
When AFP visited, he was working on a so-called shamsa design, a symbolic representation of the sun, about 50 centimetres across with intertwined abstract, geometric and floral patterns.
He said he started the piece over four months ago and aimed to finish it within six weeks, using natural pigments such as lapis lazuli, saffron, gouache and pure gold, from China.
"Gold has a very strong visual appeal," said Aghamiri. "It's expensive and it enhances the perceived value of the work."
Aghamiri hails from a family of artists and artisans with a rich history in Iranian craft traditions including calligraphy, miniature painting and carpet design.
His work has been showcased in museums in Iran and in nearby Arab countries of the Gulf region where interest in Oriental and Islamic art continues to grow. "Eighty percent of my works are sold in the region, especially in the Emirates and Qatar" as well as in Turkey, he said.
In recent years, Aghamiri garnered interest abroad and even began teaching the ancient art online to students from across the world, notably the United States.
Soon, he also hopes to hold workshops in Britain for his craft, which he says is fundamentally different from European illumination art, which flourished in the Middle Ages.
European designs, he said, are more figurative and can depict human faces, animals and landscapes, and often illustrate biblical scenes.
Rich tapestry of cultural diversity: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at crossroad of civilizations
Nestled in the heart of South Asia, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa unfolds a rich tapestry of cultural diversity spanning over centuries. As we journey through the annals of time, KP emerges as a region steeped in history, shaped by a myriad of civilizations, and adorned with the unique hues of diverse communities.
The historical roots of Pakhtunkhwa delve deep into antiquity, with evidence of ancient civilizations leaving their imprints on its landscapes and minds of visitors. From the Gandhara civilization, whose artistic marvels still echo in the relics of Peshawar, Taxila and Swat, to the influence of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian cultures, the province has been a crossroads of civilizations, each contributing to its multifaceted identity.
“One of the defining features of KP’s cultural mosaic is its linguistic diversity. The region is home to a variety of languages, including Pashto, Hindko, and Saraiki, each carrying the echoes of the people, who have called this land home,” said Bakhtzada Khan, senior research officer, Archaeology and Museums Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while talking to APP.
He said the linguistic landscape becomes a historical palimpsest, revealing the ebb and flow of cultures and the resilience of communities in the face of change, adding Khattak and Meshud dances were exhibited by the respective tribes ahead of wars and battles to get psychological superiority over the rivals.
The ancient archaeological sites, like the world heritage site of Buddhist stupas of Takht-i-Bahi in Mardan and Lord Bhudda besides others 30,000 rare antiquities, statutes, artifacts and muzzleloader guns at Peshawar Museum, stand as silent witnesses to the spiritual and historical evolution that had shaped the beliefs and lifestyle of the people the over time.
“I was overwhelmed after seeing the ancient dresses of Waziristan tribes, primitive cooking plates, jewelry and muzzleloader guns mostly used by British army, besides swords of freedom fighters and punch marked coins at Peshawar Museum, the lone museum of Ghandara art in world,” said Attaullah Khan, an archeology lover of Swat.
The tourist said that preservation of Lord Bhudda’s life story in the forms of panels and statues has impressed him the most.
Bakhtzada said that architectural marvels scattered across the KP provide tangible glimpses into its storied past. From the formidable forts of Peshawar, such as the Bala Hisar Fort, to the ornate mosques like the Mahabat Khan Mosque, the region’s architecture bears testimony to the influences that have shaped its aesthetic identity. “As we traverse the historical timeline, it becomes evident that the KP’s cultural diversity is not static; it is a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve. The resilience of its people, the interplay of various influences, and the seamless integration of traditions define the kaleidoscope that is Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s cultural heritage,” he said.
In essence, exploring the historical perspective of KP’s cultural diversity is akin to unraveling a captivating narrative woven by the hands of time. It is a journey that transcends epochs, celebrating the resilience, adaptability, and richness of a region where history and culture intertwine in a dance that echoes through the ages.
The province is renowned for its vibrant blend of traditions, languages, and customs, creating a unique cultural tapestry that has evolved over centuries. One of the key elements of this tapestry is the Pashtun culture, which forms the predominant ethnic group in the region.
The province has been a crossroads for various ancient civilizations, including the Persians, Greeks, Mauryans, and Central Asians. This historical confluence has left an indelible mark on the region’s architecture, art, and folklore.
The architectural marvels such as the Buddhist stupas in Taxila and the remnants of ancient civilizations in Peshawar contribute to the rich historical fabric of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tapestry, making it a treasure trove for enthusiasts of cultural exploration and heritage appreciation. The bustling bazaars of Peshawar, including Qissa Khawani where international merchants had stayed and exchanged tale of stories at night, with their ancient charm of Qehwa (green tea) and chappli kabab, offer a sensory experience that encapsulates the rich history of the region. Shinwari emphasizes the unique intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern life.
Graffiti murals on ancient walls and contemporary art installations tell a dynamic story of Peshawar being a home of artisans. Young artists are not just preserving history; they are interpreting it through a modern lens, contributing new threads to the evolving tapestry of the region.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Information and Tourism, Feroz Jamal Kakakhel said that the government was making efforts to promote culture and tourism of the province. Besides painting exhibitions and art displays, he said snow events were planned in Swat, Abbbottabad and Chitral districts to promote adventure tourism and sports for bringing people of various cultures closer.
Grease, Sweat And Tears For Turkey's Ottoman Oil Wrestlers
Their torsos slick with oil and sweat, the fighters grapple and tussle for gold and glory, competing in a venerable Turkish sport dating back to the time of the Ottomans.
Every July, scores of wrestlers flock to the Kirkpinar tournament in the northwest of the country, a national and international attraction that gained UNESCO cultural recognition in 2010.
For the winners of this brutal contest, Turkish sporting immortality beckons.
For the losers, anguish and another year of training until they get their next shot.
"This is our Olympic Games," said Murat Kalender, one of the dozens of contestants this year.
With arms and abs as if hewn from stone, the 27-year-old warmed up in the shade of his van as he readied to take the field for the sixth year running.
"Our ancestors fought here," he told AFP, "and carrying on their legacy doesn't come without sacrifice."
Turkish oil wrestling is gruelling, and has grief woven into its illustrious history.
Legend has it that Edirne, capital of the Ottoman Empire until the fall of Constantinople, has hosted the Kirkpinar tournament each year since 1357.
The story goes that two soldiers who were brothers wrestled each other to the death -- thus the festival was born.
Today, the fights may not be to the death, but the equipment worn by a "Pehlivan" -- meaning brave warrior in Persian -- has not changed much.
Despite the prohibitive expense, olive oil is the only lubricant allowed, and the slickness makes balance as important as brute force in the fight.
The only item of clothing the wrestlers wear is leather trousers made of buffalo hide, studded and already slicked up to the britches, and weighing a whopping 10 kilogrammes (22 pounds).
With no fly to help the competitors slip into their trousers, visitors to Kirkpinar can be treated to the sight of the wrestlers contorting themselves to put on their gear -- naked.
"A belt would give the opponent something to grab hold of," said Melih Ozturk, a baby-faced 18-year-old, as he strapped the pants with cords just below the knees ahead of his bout.
In the blazing heat of the Turkish summer, the fighters lined up to face their sparring partners, the sun reflecting off the sheen of oil on their foreheads.
The aim is to overwhelm an opponent by using his strength and weight against him, to force him to the ground and pin him on his back.
Key to any successful bout is giving your rival as little purchase as possible.
The fighters slapped and pushed and pulled as they tried to gain a grip on their opponent's neck, shoulders or legs before delivering the coup de grace.
Each pair fought under the watchful eye of a referee clad in blue and gold, white towels at the ready to hand to the wrestlers should they request it.
Should they feel their bodies are not slippery enough, each competitor can also ask for extra oil.
By the end of a bout, the wrestlers' skins had turned red from the constant grappling, their eyes heavy-lidded with grease.
At the highest level, a match can last close to an hour.
"A great fight is when two opponents give it their all," said Hakan Orhan, one of the tournament's 120 referees.
A former wrestler himself, Orhan turned to umpiring "so as not to cut ties with the sport" in which he now trains his son.
"I intervene in case of an improper position, or when the wrestlers become uncontrollable and violent because they're stuck," Orhan said.
But these are rare cases as mutual respect is paramount.
The winner takes pains to congratulate his opponent, kissing the hand of older competitors out of deference.
At the top of the 14 classes of Pehlivan wrestlers are the Baspehlivans, who make a living from their craft and who train all year round.
"Everyone wants to be a champion here," said Hamza Ozkaradeniz, a 32-year-old Baspehlivan who has been wrestling for 20 years, but never before at Kirkpinar.
"But we're all dreaming of the golden belt," the tournament's top prize, which comes with a bonus of 550,000 Turkish lira ($17,000) -- more than 30 times the minimum wage.
This year's winner was Yusuf Can Zeybek for the second year running, who claimed the famous prize in 52 minutes.
Another win next year and eternal glory will be his: whoever triumphs at Kirkpinar three times in a row earns the right to keep the gold belt for life, a feat last achieved in 1997.
Not every wrestler is so lucky.
The losers often end up collapsed onto the grass, inconsolable and incandescent with rage, or else in hospital to treat their wounds.
Yet despite the pain, the wrestlers cannot tear themselves away.
"I've had shoulder surgery," said Ozkaradeniz, and last year he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon.
His litany of injuries also includes "fractures on my ribs, torn knee ligaments... three operations on my wrists".
"But we love this nonetheless."
Can't Coach, Can Advise?
Waqar Younis's Questionable Appointment
CricVision
Owais Lateef
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has assigned former captain and coach Waqar Younis as an advisor to handle cricket matters due to his busy schedule as Interior Minister.
Waqar Younis, who has twice held the position of head coach of the Pakistan cricket team, has once again become a part of the power corridor of Gaddafi Stadium as the chairman's advisor. However, his previous stints as head coach ended on a sour note, raising questions about his appointment as an advisor.
The PCB chairman held extensive consultations for the appointment of the advisor, including government officials, former players, and cricket experts. According to sources, he had also informed the Prime Minister about his decision to appoint an advisor due to his busy schedule as Interior Minister during their meeting a few weeks ago.
Waqar Younis first served as head coach from March 2010 to August 2011 and was reappointed in 2014.
He also held the position of bowling coach in 2006 and again in 2022 under Misbah-ul-Haq's leadership.
Waqar Younis's two stints as head coach were marred by multiple controversies.
His relationships with several players, including Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal, were strained.
As an advisor, his position may be more commanding and administrative, but his track record as head coach suggests that he may struggle to manage issues and unite the team.
At a time when the Pakistan cricket team is under pressure due to poor performances on the England and Australia tours and the World Cup, Waqar Younis's biggest challenge will be to bring unity to the team.
He has publicly criticized Babar Azam's captaincy as a commentator, so working with him to build a new team will also be a significant challenge for Waqar Younis.
According to PCB sources, Mohsin Naqvi has decided to limit himself to the board's administration, while Waqar Younis will have a free hand in cricket matters.
However, his two failed stints as head coach may prove to be a significant burden for Waqar Younis, hindering his progress as an advisor.
Waqar Younis coaching career
After ending his illustrious cricket career, Waqar Younis began his coaching career in 2006.
He has been appointed as the head coach of the Pakistan cricket team twice and as bowling coach thrice. He was first appointed as Pakistan's bowling coach in 2006 but resigned in 2007.
In December 2009, he was reappointed as bowling and fielding coach.
In March 2010, he was appointed as the head coach of the national team for the first time.
He resigned from the position in 2011, citing personal reasons. In 2014, Waqar Younis was appointed as head coach again, but he failed to complete his tenure and resigned in 2016 due to some disagreements. In September 2019, he was given responsibilities as a fast bowling coach in the coaching panel formed under Misbah-ul-Haq's leadership.
He resigned again before completing his tenure.
Waqar Younis as cricketer
Waqar Younis made his international debut in 1989 against India, taking 4/80 in his first Test match.
He quickly established himself as a formidable fast bowler, known for his ability to take wickets on flat pitches and his skill with reverse swing.he took 373 wickets in Test cricket at an average of 23.56, including 22 five-wicket hauls and 5 ten-wicket hauls and 416 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs) at an average of 23.84, including 13 four-wicket hauls.
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Nihao China 2024 - A Journey Through Culture, Heritage, and Tourism!
China Cultural Center in Pakistan and the Cultural Office of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Pakistan have officially launched Nihao China- 2024 Silk Road Tourism Overseas Promotion Online Season in Pakistan.
“Nihao! China” - 2024 Silk Road Tourism Overseas Promotion Season series of activities were organized by the Network of International Culturalink Entities (NICE), in collaboration with China Cultural Center, China National Tourist Offices overseas, International Tourism Alliance of Silk Road cities and the cultural and tourism departments (bureaus) of 13 provinces (autonomous regions, and municipalities) including Shanghai, Jiangsu, Fujian, Henan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Yunnan, Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia and Xinjiang from June to October 2024.
The aim of the event is to promote the Silk Road spirit of “peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, and mutual learning and mutual benefit”, showcase the magnificent natural scenery, diversified ethnic cultures and profound cultural heritage of cities along the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and enhance the exchanges, mutual learning and common prosperity among the member cities of the International Tourism Alliance of Silk Road Cities.
According to a statement of the embassy, the aim of the event is to promote the Silk Road spirit of “peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, and mutual learning and mutual benefit”, showcase the magnificent natural scenery, diversified ethnic cultures and profound cultural heritage of cities along the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and enhance the exchanges, mutual learning and common prosperity among the member cities of the International Tourism Alliance of Silk Road Cities.
The activities will include the launching ceremony, global broadcasting of themed videos, Glory of Millennia - Silk Road Photo Exhibition, Millennia Silk Road cultural and tourism resources exhibition, and “Nihao! China” overseas promotion events.
To expand the domestic and international influence of the Promotion Season, The Network of International Culturalink Entities (NICE) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province and Sanya Municipal People’s Government organized the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Silk Road Tourism Overseas Promotion Seasonon June 24 in Sanya, Hainan, China showcasing Hainan's abundant cultural heritage, tourism offerings, and promoting Hainan tourism routes and products as well as the latest inbound tourism policies to international audiences.
The event seeks to broaden the international tourism market in Hainan and enhance overseas precision marketing efforts.
Hainan, a key hub of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, is promoting the strategic alignment of Belt and Road Initiative cooperation and free trade port construction, aiming to establish a more extensive pattern of engagement with the global community.
Viewers in Pakistan can enjoy all these fascinating events on our Facebook, Wechat, Official Twitter (X) handle of Director China Cultural Center in Pakistan H.E Zhang Heqing @zhang_heqing and other social media platforms.
Page 10 TGP July-24
Pressure Cooker: The Silent Struggles of Students
Opinion
Ali Ahmad Zia
The tragic news of a student’s suicide after failing board exams has once again highlighted the intense pressure faced by students in our education system. This unfortunate event is not an isolated case; it is a symptom of a deeper, systemic problem that affects countless young lives across the country. The pressures surrounding board exams, both before and after results are announced, can be overwhelming. This article delves into the multifaceted causes of this pressure and the dire need for reform.
One of the most significant sources of stress for students is the expectation placed on them by parents and society. In many households, academic success is seen as the primary indicator of a child’s worth and future potential. Parents, often with the best intentions, may unknowingly impose unrealistic expectations, hoping their children will achieve what they could not. This immense pressure to succeed can lead to severe anxiety and depression among students. Society also plays a crucial role in perpetuating this pressure. The stigma attached to failure, the relentless comparisons with peers, and the glorification of top scorers create an environment where students feel their self-worth is tied to their academic performance. The fear of disappointing their families and facing societal judgment can push students to the brink. Many students are unaware of their interests and strengths, often choosing fields of study based on parental pressure or societal trends rather than personal passion. The lack of proper career guidance and mentorship in schools means that students are not exposed to a broad range of career options. As a result, they end up in fields that do not align with their skills or interests, leading to poor performance and, ultimately, failure.
Our education system heavily emphasizes rote learning, where students memorize information to pass exams rather than understanding concepts. This approach not only hinders critical thinking and creativity but also makes learning a stressful and monotonous process. When students study merely to pass exams, they miss out on the joy of learning and the development of a genuine interest in their subjects.
Education should be an engaging and enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, our current system often lacks interactive and entertaining methods of teaching. The focus on standardized testing and rigid curricula leaves little room for creativity and fun in learning. Incorporating interactive activities, practical applications, and technology in classrooms can make learning more enjoyable and reduce the pressure associated with exams. In the race to secure degrees, students often overlook the importance of acquiring knowledge and skills. The societal emphasis on obtaining a degree as a ticket to a successful career leads students to focus solely on passing exams rather than truly understanding the subjects. This approach not only limits their intellectual growth but also leaves them ill-prepared for real-world challenges.
Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach involving parents, educators, and policymakers. Parents need to provide emotional support and realistic expectations, understanding that failure is a part of the learning process. Schools should implement robust career guidance programs and mentorship opportunities to help students explore their interests and strengths.
Education systems must shift from rote learning to promoting conceptual understanding and critical thinking. Incorporating interactive and entertaining methods in teaching can make learning more engaging and less stressful. Finally, society needs to redefine success, valuing knowledge, skills, and personal growth over mere academic achievements.
The tragic loss of a young life is a stark reminder of the urgent need for change. By addressing these issues, we can create an environment where students are motivated by curiosity and a love for learning rather than fear of failure.
Childhood Trauma
in Education
EduVision
Muhammad Sarwar
Let me share with you a terrifying experience that is both funny and serious in nature. As a kid, I was very shy and taciturn. At school, I neither asked any questions nor answered any. The funny part is that when I stood up for the first time and said something, a gigantic hand met my face with a thundering slap. The serious part is that the violence was a totally unjustified criminal act that deflated my confidence and put me in a miserable situation.
It was in the third grade when one of our teachers mispronounced the word ‘uncle’ as ‘unsel.’ I stood up and corrected him. Instead of thanking me, his face turned livid with anger, and he swooped upon me like a vulture ready to take an innocent life. For a short time, the barrage of slaps left my ears deaf, and I struggled to hear anything except a buzzing sound. A few moments later, as I was recovering, I faintly heard the word ‘balloon’ reaching my ears as ‘balan.’ Amid the cascade of tears dripping down my cheeks, I stood up again, corrected him, and met a similar fate once more. It was an unwelcoming welcome, not once, but twice in a day.
Anyways, time has passed. It is said that ‘time heals all wounds.’ However, wounds and traumas inflicted in childhood can ossify into organic diseases later on in adulthood. I do not blame the teacher entirely for his cruelty. Perhaps, he also suffered a similar fate from his teachers, parents, and others, which morphed him into an abnormal adult. I use the word ‘abnormal’ as an adjective for him because he treated me abnormally as a student.
It is a common observation that our society is extremely intolerant. And intolerance is like a fever: it is not only a disease but also the symptom of a disease. Most often we convince others not through dialogue but violence and force. From settling our individual issues to conducting our politics, violence pervades every aspect of our lives. The level of intolerance reflects the intensity of a sick society. The higher the intolerance in a society, the sicker it is.
It is difficult to point out the singular cause of intolerance in our society. It would be like the chicken-and-egg debate, with no one knowing which of them came first. However, I believe that society does not exist in a vacuum; rather, social and political configurations of power create our society. In other words, social relations make and break any society.
If we look deep down, there are some agents that have a major share in making or breaking our society. Currently, I am attending a training workshop in Islamabad designed for the prospective teachers under the auspices of the FDE in collaboration with the American Board. The training program chiefly addresses an important question: how can we better educate our kids? The discussion revolves around two important agents that make or break our society: teachers and parents. If one of them fails, normal kids may be turned into abnormal adults, thereby creating fuel for an intolerant society.
It is true that an atmosphere of pessimism is plaguing our country. Everyone wants to go abroad because it is believed that nothing can be fixed here. It is also true that life here is becoming increasingly difficult, and people are worried about the security of their families and their future. Therefore, a healthy degree of pessimism is justified, and individual choices should be respected. However, it is also true that there are no quick fixes. There is no antibiotic available to swiftly heal every malaise. We have to live with the reality we are creating for ourselves. Our past has led us here; our present will lead us to our future.
I remember a nice conversation with a chemistry professor in the Oval Ground at GCUL. The erudite professor told me that ‘ the garments of our profession has to be earned and re-earned in order to be valid.’ He explained that a doctor earns her profession for the first time by wearing the symbolic dress. However, the dress must be re-earned to show the validity of her profession. If a patient is satisfied, then the doctor has truly validated the symbol and re-earned her profession. Similarly, the symbolic gown of a teacher will only be validated and re-earned if she succeeds in teaching and bringing out the best in students. I learned this lifelong lesson from a teacher while laughing and enjoying the sun in the winter season.
I believe that optimum learning can be achieved effectively in an atmosphere free of fear. In an environment where kids feel fragile, learning becomes a distant dream. Neither a teacher nor a parent should create an environment where kids are vulnerable to drowning in fear. Fortunately, violent episodes in schools have considerably decreased as compared to when I was in school. However, a lot of work still needs to be done. More training programs like the one offered by FDE and American Board should be encouraged and supported in order to create a better future for our country.
Respect: A Missing Element in Pakistani Society
Respect—a value set defined by the ability to show regard toward the other, the appreciation of the other’s similarity or uniqueness, and the maintenance of cordial relationships with the other—has been a definitive part of our culture for generations. Thus, respect is not merely a tradition; it remains the key to everyone’s proper behavior and society’s progress. Unfortunately, in the last few years, one can observe a certain decline in this most important virtue. Unauthorized incidences of disrespect, increasing intolerance, and plain impolite manners in civil interactions reveal a missing attribute. Such erosion of respect weakens the society’s structures and brings in division and strife. This issue indeed requires attention, to enable us to rebuild what was lost in our cultures and at the same time produce a Pakistan where acceptance of one another is as natural as the air we breathe.
Respect forms the core of the honor codes and is vehemently supported by the teachings of Islam incorporated into our culture. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) laid practical examples of respect in different spheres of life, being kind to kids, respecting senior citizens, and forgiving people in interpersonal relations. In the past, the concept of respect was not just a functional practice, but it was also a virtue. In Islamic teachings, parent’s respect is stressed, and people are encouraged to care for their elders and have proper relations with relatives, strengthening family and social ties. The educational institutions used to stand on the policy of respect in which students had the highest level of respect towards their teachers who were seen as bearers of knowledge. This respect was also evident in employment places where employees respected their employers and vice versa. Some of the foregoing activities of showing respect were not just cultural or traditional but were pertinent to the structure, stability and development of society. While pondering over these values, it can be seen how necessary it is to begin practicing respect in the modern society to revive the backbone of a united and progressive Pakistan.
However, in today’s Pakistani society, disrespect can be seen vividly in different spheres of the nation’s everyday life. Roads, markets, and other common areas are characterized by obnoxious behaviors ranging from reckless driving to disrespect when getting goods and services. Another issue, during the use of social media, is to become very abusive in their interactions. This disregard has become rampant and has affected the core areas like education where the learners disrespect the teachers. In workplaces, the lack of respect significantly affects coordination and performance as subordinates, colleagues, managers, and employers do not understand how to behave properly. Political theatres are not much better; most political leaders usually use vulgar language and personal attacks. The institutionalized disrespect is a sore point that weakens the social contract and promotes strife. It is only possible by restoring decency and reconstructing the meaning of respect to provide people with a basis to restore respect in all fields of their lives.
Inadequate respect in the context of Pakistani society implies serious implications that pertain to deeper dimensions of social disintegration and continued positive polarity. This kind of disrespect undermines the fabric of society since it diminishes togetherness and collectiveness. Since people become selfish and inattentive to other people’s concerns, disagreements and misinterpretations occur, and create more chaos and factions. The youth are easily affected because they have no set role models to follow. Thus they grow up in an environment where it is normal to disrespect other people and as a result, they take on the undesirable traits and give back similar attitudes. Not only does it impede their personality growth but it also establishes a rather dark example for future generations to follow. Higher levels of violence and intolerance are the inherent consequences of such disrespecting culture. When citizens do not accord one another’s courtesy and respect, it becomes possible that if at any time they have misunderstandings, they are most likely to resort to physical confrontations. This constant stress and anxiety, which comes from living in such an unfriendly environment, also slows people’s character and community development. Furthermore, respect for people’s rights and freedoms is not given, which affects the development and progress of a nation. A society that cannot work in unison is less likely to be innovative, collaborative, or simply goals involving the common good. These complexities and rivalries thus consume resources and time that could have been utilized in development projects. Therefore, the lack of accordance with the principle of respect means that the societal structure not only dissects but also hinders the opportunity to build a single, well-off, and evolving Pakistan. To close these rifts and build a more tolerant and progressing society respect must be restored.
Pakistani society requires massive interventions encompassing respect more than anything else; there must be mainstream efforts aimed at teaching society members to reciprocate respect and courtesy. Education takes a central place starting with the curricular changes that demonstrate moral and ethical principles. Introducing subjects that focus on the ability to empathize with others, accept people’s differences, and practice polite language, will help raise a generation that cares about maintaining respect in society. Community-based programs play a crucial role in the re-socialization of such values. The leaders and other influential people have the power, to an extent, over societal norms. In case they are non-aggressive, they can perform positive sentiments that can change the attitude of other people toward them. Government policies should encourage schools, families, and community practices through incentives on the respect exercise. As the media is a strong influence in today’s society, it is the duty and obligation of the media to portray proper adult behavior and to demonstrate positive role models. It is crucial to introduce communication between individuals of various social statuses to develop more tolerance. Those forums that allow people to express themselves in matters of culture, religion, and other aspects of diversity could encourage respect for these aspects of diversity in society. Every person can start analyzing personal conduct and relations with others to identify essential changes. Some of the easy yet effective measures include giving full attention to people, being courteous in communication, and being polite even when one is arguing. Thus, the people’s courtesy and understanding extend beyond their social environment and create a positive chain reaction of respect throughout Pakistan, ultimately contributing towards creating a unified society. By adopting and ensuring the effective operation of these multiple-fold methods and policies, Pakistan can attempt to regain the respect that are the core social value of a Muslim society and build a stronger, more integrated society for future generations.
Restoring respect in today’s Pakistan requires that we as a society unite and work to restore respect for one another based on our collective identity as human beings. It should be pointed out that respect is not only a value but also a foundation of the interrelations of people. Being nice and compassionate does not even require a penny but the result will be life-changing in terms of bridging the gap between people. Each time we choose to treat people with respect and understanding even in trivial facets of our lives.
, we promote a world that is accepting rather than a
Bridging the
FacultyGAPin Higher Education
EduVision
Professor Dr. Muhammad Sarwar TI
The most challenging task I’ve faced is persuading the faculty to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education. This difficulty stems from the significant shift in the work environment, transforming both from education and grooming in the 1980s to education, grooming and business-oriented in the late 1990s. Unfortunately, the education system tilted more toward a business-oriented model where students are viewed as buyers and faculty as sellers, completely ignoring the grooming part which is essential to produce well-rounded graduates. In this new paradigm, the business rule that the customer is always right applies, creating a fundamental shift in how education is perceived and delivered. Unfortunately, majority faculty members hardly synchronized their mindsets with this changed landscape, resulting in a gap of understanding that leads to frustration, anxiety, and ultimately, demotivation.
In the 1980s, higher education was more than just imparting knowledge; it was about grooming students for the future. Faculty members were not just educators but also mentors who shaped the holistic development of their students. This approach emphasized character building, critical thinking and personal growth alongside academic excellence. By the late 1990s, this landscape began to shift dramatically. The advent of market-driven policies and the commercialization of education introduced a business-oriented approach. Universities and colleges started to operate more like businesses, with students viewed as customers and education as a product. The primary focus shifted from holistic development to meeting the demands and expectations of students as consumers.
By the early 2002s, the higher education landscape began to evolve again, incorporating education, grooming, business and research and development. Emphasis was increasingly placed on research and development, product development and patent development, aligning more closely with models seen in developed countries. It became evident that unless universities adopted this model and implemented it fully, the education system would struggle to progress.
To achieve the desired outcomes, a shift in hiring practices needs to changed but unfortunately not. The proposed hiring model: hiring faculty based on their strengths in either research or teaching, or a combination thereof. For example, faculty involved in research would need to secure research grants through a competitive grant system, with their teaching load adjusted accordingly. Faculty hired solely for teaching would take on a full teaching load, regardless of their status. Universities can implement this faculty hiring policy on current faculty by seeking their consent.
A historical perspective: The landscape of higher education in Pakistan underwent a significant transformation in 2002 when the University Grants Commission (UGC) was replaced by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), with Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman appointed as its first chairman. This marked a pivotal shift in the country’s higher education system, aiming to align with global standards and enhance the quality and accessibility of education. The establishment of the HEC represented a paradigm shift in the governance and funding of higher education in Pakistan. The new body was tasked with driving reforms and ensuring the development of higher education institutions (HEIs) across the country. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman’s leadership brought a renewed focus on research, innovation and quality assurance. Key reforms and initiatives were undertaken to meet challenges emerging by rapidly changing landscape of higher education globally. A few of them are as under:
Research and development: One of the primary objectives of the HEC was to promote research and development. Significant funding was allocated to establish research facilities, provide research grants and encourage collaboration between academia and industry. This led to a marked increase in research output and the quality of academic publications from Pakistan.
Faculty development: The HEC introduced numerous programs aimed at faculty development, including scholarships for advanced studies, training programs and opportunities for international collaboration. These initiatives were designed to enhance the qualifications and capabilities of the faculty, aligning them with global standards.
Quality assurance: Quality assurance mechanisms were introduced to monitor and evaluate the performance of HEIs. Accreditation bodies were established to ensure that institutions met the required standards. This was a significant shift from the previous approach, which had less emphasis on quality metrics.
Access and equity: The HEC worked to expand access to higher education by establishing new universities and campuses, particularly in underserved areas. Scholarships and financial aid programs were introduced to support students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Technological integration: Recognizing the importance of technology in modern education, the HEC promoted the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) in teaching and learning. Digital libraries, online resources, and e-learning platforms were developed to support both students and faculty.
This rapidly changed the landscape of higher education in Pakistan and majority coming from social sciences departments hardly adapted to it which caused a substantial gap even within university faculty. This changed faculty’s role from mentors to service providers. In the traditional model, faculty members were seen as authoritative figures whose primary responsibility was to educate and groom students. Their roles encompassed a broad spectrum of activities, from teaching and research to mentorship and community engagement. With the commercialization of education, faculty members found themselves in a new role: service providers. The expectation was no longer just to impart knowledge but to cater to the needs and preferences of students. This shift required a change in mindset and approach, which many faculty members struggled to embrace.
The transition from mentors to service providers created a significant gap in understanding. Faculty members, who were accustomed to the traditional model, found it challenging to adjust to the new expectations. This gap led to several issues:
Frustration: Faculty members felt frustrated as their roles and responsibilities changed. The emphasis on student satisfaction and market-driven metrics often conflicted with their academic values and principles.
Anxiety: The pressure to meet the demands of students and administrators created anxiety among faculty members. They were expected to deliver results and meet targets that were often at odds with their educational philosophies.
Demotivation: The shift in focus from education and grooming to education business led to a sense of demotivation. Faculty members who entered academia to make a difference in students’ lives found themselves in a system that prioritized profit over purpose.
Strategies to Synchronize Faculty with the Changing Landscape: To bridge this gap and help faculty members adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education, several strategies can be implemented:
Professional development: Invest in continuous professional development programs that help faculty members understand and adapt to the changing educational environment. Workshops, seminars, and training sessions on topics such as student engagement, market-driven education and modern teaching methodologies can be beneficial.
Open communication: Foster an environment of open communication where faculty members can express their concerns and challenges. Regular meetings, feedback sessions and forums for discussion can help address issues and find collaborative solutions.
Mentorship programs: Establish mentorship programs where experienced faculty members who have successfully adapted to the new landscape can guide their peers. These programs can provide support, share best practices and offer practical advice on navigating the changes.
Collaborative decision-making: Involve faculty members in the decision-making process related to educational policies and practices. This inclusion can help them feel valued and give them a sense of ownership over the changes.
Recognition and rewards: Implement recognition and reward systems that acknowledge faculty members’ efforts to adapt and excel in the new environment.
Celebrating successes and achievements can boost morale and motivation.
Islamabad